Colombo BC remained unbeaten as they rolled out for a 72-54 with a robust second half performance. The match was played at the Basketball courts of St. Joseph’s College Nuegoda vs. Old Benz.
The game commenced at eight on the dot with the traditional jump ball start. Colombo BC won the jump ball and drew first blood when Sanjeewa Kulumina swished the nets off a post move. Old Benz were right back in the game as they dished out a three pointer on the other end. The score board read 3-2 for three minutes as neither of the teams scored till then. Old Benz broke off the jinx when they ran a fast break and extended the lead to 5-2. Old Benz opted for a sagging man to man defense during the first quarter while the defense of the Colombo lads lacked a clear plan. The usual top notch offense of the Colombo lads was not witnessed during the maiden quarter hence the opponents lead the game by five points.
Colombo lads did make an impact to the game during the second quarter as they squared the score cards 21 all with seven minutes to run down. Rebounds weren’t the strong suit of the Old Benz and that was one of the main points which cost them game at the end. Colombo lads penetrated into the defense and drew fouls and converted them into points on the free throw line. The difference was that Colombo BC finally executed their plan in offense but the Old Benz just piled up the scoreboard with odd shots.
Half time – Colombo Basketball Club – 39 Old Benz – 31
Even though both the teams did get a ten minute break Old Benz was not on the top of the fitness cards. Tired legs weakened their defense while the Colombo lads got the better of it. Roshan Fernando hitting the momentum swished a couple of three pointers which swapped the fate of the game. The scrappy defense and offense in the maiden quarter was transformed into a dazzling one. Old Benz did it right when they started penetrating into the defense to draw fouls, but the Colombo defenders were good at defending without committing fouls. With no rebounds it was a tough ask to gain the lead back.
Old Benz scored thirteen points in the final quarter while Colombo BC scored fourteen points. Old Benz lacked consistency in their shooting and it was worse as they did not have rebounds to back it up. It was a bad day in office for Benedictines as they walked away in despair at full time.
Full time – Colombo Basketball Club – 78 Old Benz – 54
ThePapare.com player of the match – Roshan Fernando (Colombo Basketball Club)
